Page 118 - QCC CAT-2023

INFORMATION FINDING YOUR TIRE SIZE

THE TIRE SIZE CAN ALWAYS BE FOUND ON THE SIDEWALL OF A TIRE.
IT USUALLY LOOKS LIKE THE EXAMPLE SHOWN: P235/70R15

TIRE TYPE: For example “P” for passenger or “LT” for Light Truck.
TIRE WIDTH: The width of the tire in millimeters (mm).
ASPECT RATIO: The sidewall height (from rim to tread), shown as a percentage
of the tire width. In this example, the sidewall height is 70% of the tire width.

TIRE CONSTRUCTION: “R” stands for Radial. This is not as important when
choosing a winter traction device.
RIM DIAMETER: The diameter of the rim in inches (in).

MINIMUM CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

C D C PASSENGER AND LIGHT TRUCK
A

MINIMUM TREAD FACE MINIMUM SIDEWALL
SAE CLASS CLEARANCE (A) CLEARANCE (C)
CLASS “S” 1.46” / 37 MM 0.59” / 15 MM
CLASS “U” 1.97” / 50 MM 0.91” / 23 MM
CLASS “W” 2.5” / 63.5 MM 1.5” / 38.1 MM

A A The minimum clearance specified must be maintained around spring clips,
spring bolts, fenders, braces, splash pans, fuel lines, brake lines, brake
controls and other mechanical components.
The tire size must be known in order to select a tire chain of correct fit. It is important to check your vehicle owner’s
manual. The restricted wheel clearances in most of today’s vehicles may require the use of SAE Class “S” tire chains. Please
refer to your owner’s manual for specific tire chain recommendations for your vehicle.

DEFINITIONS OF SAE CLASSIFICATIONS

S.A.E Classifications refers to the area around the drive tires that is allowed for tire chains and cables. This classification is
created by the Society of Automotive Engineers and almost every vehicle since the mid 90’s has been placed in a
category. It is always recommended the vehicle owner look in their owner’s manual before purchasing a traction product.

Regular (non-reinforced) Regular (non-reinforced) and Those passenger tire
passenger tire chains and lug reinforced passenger tire chains that use light
cables for vehicles with chains for vehicles with regular truck components, as
restricted wheel well (non-restricted) wheel well well as some light truck
clearances. clearances. chains.

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